Nick Auterac may be the least experienced of Bath Rugby's new signings but his arrival from Aviva Premiership rivals Saracens says the most about the club's rising reputation.
Although the trophy has eluded them, Sarries have set the benchmark in the Premiership over the past two seasons and topped the regular season standings on both occasions.
Add in a first Heineken Cup final appearance for the Londoners back in May and the future at Allianz Park looks rosy.
It is therefore surprising for a highly-rated 21-year-old to seek a move elsewhere but Auterac believes it is the best thing for him.
"It was a very tough decision as Sarries are one of the top clubs in the Premiership and Europe," he said.
"It wasn't easy and I had many sleepless nights wavering on whether to go or not.
"But when the opportunity arose here it was something I felt I would have regretted if I had not taken it.
"Saracens had a few looseheads who were set in stone and I saw more of an opportunity to be able to play here. So far it's been great and I haven't looked back."
Over the past 12 months Bath have set a precedent of bringing the best young English talent to The Rec and thrusting them straight into the spotlight.
George Ford and Anthony Watson grabbed their opportunities with both hands last season, and the same is expected of Henry Thomas this term.
Should Auterac be given his own chance to shine, he is line for a bright future in blue, black and white.
Auterac added: "I saw the young guys who been given an opportunity here – the likes of Ollie Devoto, George Ford and Anthony Watson. They're all young guys coming through and I wanted a piece of that.
"I was also looking forward to the opportunity to work with Neal Hatley. I'd heard really good things about his coaching. So far I've been really happy with how he's improved my game."
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